For Peace of Mind by Leenie Brown

Author:Leenie Brown [Brown, Leenie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Leenie B Books
Published: 2015-06-13T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 10

“Good morning, Miss Bennet, Miss Elizabeth,” greeted Lord Matlock as they stood in front of the Gardiner’s home waiting for the last trunk to be secured to the Gardiner’s carriage. “I pray you are in better spirits this morning, Miss Elizabeth.”

“I am, thank you, but might I have a word with you in private?”

“Certainly.” Lord Matlock extended his arm and the two of them began to stroll up the street a short distance.

“I was thinking.” She looked away from Lord Matlock and drew a breath as if gathering her courage. “What if I break off my courtship with Mr. Darcy, for now—to give Lady Catherine and Miss Bingley the appearance that they are succeeding? This would then give my sister a chance to marry, and perhaps with your help and that of Mr. Darcy, we could find another parish for my cousin. One where he and my sister could be comfortable and perhaps even within a reasonable distance from my mother.” Again she drew a breath to steady her nerves. “After Mr. Collins is in possession of such an income, Mr. Darcy and I would be free to resume our courtship. I know it is a bit of subterfuge, and normally, I abhor all forms of deceit, but I can think of no other way to avoid hurting someone for whom I truly care.” Elizabeth looked at Lord Matlock, her eyes filled with disquiet.

Lord Matlock considered her, a gentle smile on his face. “Yours is not a plan without merit.” He patted her arm. “I shall keep it in mind; however, I think we can get both you and your sister married without the interference of either my sister or Bingley’s. Will you trust me?”

“Will you use my plan if yours does not work?”

“I will.”

“Then, I will trust you.” She paused, drew in another deep breath and looked into Lord Matlock’s eyes. “I love him, sir. With every ounce of my being, I love him, and I will do whatever you require not to lose him.”

Lord Matlock’s eyes shimmered. “I understand, Miss Elizabeth. You shall not lose him,” he promised.

“Thank you, sir. I shall hold you to your word.”

Lord Matlock laughed softly. “I would expect no less, Miss Elizabeth. And how can I fail when I would have to answer to both you and my wife if I do? It is great motivation, my dear, for I do not wish to disappoint either of you.” He covered Elizabeth’s hand with his. “Now, if I do not return you to Darcy soon, he shall be after me.”

“I fear you are too late, my lord.” Elizabeth leaned closer and spoke softly, giving a nod in the direction of Darcy, who strode towards them with very determined steps.

“Bingley is here,” Darcy said as he approached. “He is only joined by his sister Louisa and her husband. Miss Bingley has decided, with her brother’s help, that remaining in town to enjoy the many events of the season would be more beneficial to her than coming to Netherfield.

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